Parking & Transportation Services buys two new shuttles
February 6, 2019 - PATS Admin
UNM Parking & Transportation Services (PATS) is expecting to take delivery of two new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) shuttle buses by May 2019.
PATS will replace two of its current shuttles with new 2020 Thomas HDX CNG-fueled models which emit 13 percent less greenhouse gasses than diesel-fueled models. The new 40-foot shuttles will seat up to 39 passengers and will feature ADA-compliant wheelchair lifts.
With approximately 1.6 million annual passenger boardings recorded last year, UNM PATS operates the second largest transportation system in New Mexico after Albuquerque’s public transit system, ABQ Ride. This level of service requires close management of shuttle buses and personnel to ensure safe and dependable service to the UNM community.
PATS currently owns and operates 31 shuttles with varying passenger capacities; all equipped with ADA lifts. “The 40-foot buses have an average life span of 14 to 15 years depending on mileage, engine hours and long-term maintenance/repair history,” says Director of UNM PATS Barbara Morck.
PATS is 100% self-funded and covers its own capital expenditures. Therefore, it must plan well in advance to finance large capital expenditures such as new shuttle buses.
“Shuttle replacements partly depend on availability of PATS’ capital funds,” says PATS Transportation Manager Ken Morris, “We have a continual replacement schedule that dictates when and which department vehicles are due for maintenance or replacement.”
Update: Shuttles are pending delivery as of 9.30.19
